I don’t think this adds much to the previous report, but give the local paper its place!
Last updated 15:09, Thursday, 20 November 2008
A £200,000 CONSERVATION project aimed at protecting part of Hadrian’s Wall at Haltwhistle is under way.
Natural England has provided the funding for work to be carried out on protecting a 800 metre stretch of the wall at Great Chesters Farm.
Time has taken its toll on this portion of the Wall and the Roman remains are at risk of weather damage, and damage caused by grazing animals.
At Great Chesters, Hadrian’s Wall forms part of the boundary of a Site of Special Scientific Interest, but is under risk from marauding sheep and cattle breaking through the ancient defences.
Natural England has teamed up with English Heritage, Northumberland National Park Authority and Hadrian’s Wall Heritage to conserve this important historical feature in the area.
Hadrian’s Wall archaeologist for English Heritage Mike Collins, said: “This section of Hadrian’s Wall is a fantastic survivor from our Roman past and one which allows us to see the detail of the original Roman construction work on the Wall.
“Its condition has long been of concern, leading to its inclusion on our Heritage at Risk Register, and it is therefore very welcome that these repairs are now taking place to save this for the nation.
“English Heritage has worked closely in partnership with the owner and Natural England to develop this scheme and, once complete, this major piece of conservation work will ensure the Wall’s survival for the future, whilst preserving its authentic Roman feel.”
Natural England is also funding the building of a new dry stone wall at the site, in addition to protecting the Roman Wall.
In the 1890s, a dry stone wall was built on top and along the Wall at Great Chesters to enclose animals in the adjacent fields and help save the fragile core of the Roman remains.
However, over the years that wall has collapsed, leaving Hadrian’s Wall open to damage from roaming animals.
Work has now started at the stretch on building a new dry stone wall using traditional techniques to further protect the Wall, and the wildlife surrounding it.
Natural England’s historic buildings adviser Dr Tom Gledhill, said: “Natural England is delighted to help safeguard the ancient history and natural history along Hadrian’s Wall.
“Thanks to this special project, we can not only save one of the finest sections of the Roman Wall, but also safeguard some of Northumberland’s most precious wildlife.
“Hadrian’s Wall is one of North-East England’s most important tourist attractions and a World Heritage Site, and soon visitors will be able to enjoy a restored Roman Wall, a repaired dry stone wall, and a wealth of wall-side wildlife.”
The project partners would like to apologise for any inconvenience to walkers that may occur during the work at Great Chesters, but insist that the long-term benefits should outweigh any temporary problems.
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